When to Consider a Care Home

This is a very good question, with no right or wrong answer. Our two most common scenarios are:

Sometimes, you're able to plan for these things, perhaps you've noticed changes in somebody elderly that you care about, for example, they just aren't quite able to look after themselves like they used to; perhaps they've noticed themselves and realise that they would benefit from some care.

Other times, you find that there were no warning signs prior to a significant decline in an elderly persons health, when care is required immediately. With an emergency situation on your hands, it is an easy but dangerous mistake to 'settle' on the first place you come across.

Whatever your situation, we can offer some advice to help you make an informed choice.

Every individual must have an assessment of needs carried out before they enter a care home. One of the management team at the home will carry out the assessment and if Social Services are providing funding they will also carry out an assessment before the one at the care home.

We appreciate that this can often be a very stressful time, so in order to make this process as easy as possible, we aim to carry out assessments within one day so you can stop worrying and start settling in.

This assessment is not a test and you are not on trial. It is merely to ensure that we are able to provide you with the care you require. Despite it being against the Care Standards Act 2000 (regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC - formerly Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI)), many homes will neglect to carry out this assessment or may cut corners by doing the bare minimum. It is essential that you insist on a thorough assessment being carried out in order to ensure you will get the correct care. Our care teams (and indeed our assessors) are friendly, caring, knowledgeable and above all, there to help.

There will be a number of questions that you'd like to ask when choosing a care home. We recommend taking the following steps:

• Research the care available in your area - seek recommendations from other people.
• Create a shortlist of homes you want to visit.
• Write a list of questions to ask on your visit - and don't be afraid to ask them.
• Speak to residents and staff about the home.
• Find out whether or not there is a waiting list.
• Ask if you can read the most recent inspection report.
• Are you able to come for a meal or to spend the afternoon?
• Work out what your funding situation will be - the Care Home Manager will be able to give you advice on this.
• If the manager believes you may get assistance with funding, contact social services.
• If you are going to be self funding, contact your chosen home when you are ready to become a resident.

How do I find help?

Help is available from many sources including:

• Your GP.
• Your local Social Services department.
• Local voluntary organisations for older people.
• The Care Quality Commission - CQC.

What can the Local Authority do?

They will make an assessment of your needs, and produce a report called a care plan. It is important to be honest about your needs so that they can offer you the best help they can.

If you are assessed as needing assistance, the local authority has a legal duty to provide you with the care you require, although the levels of care and charges may vary from area to area.

They may also be able to suggest other organisations that can help if the local authority cannot, or you do not want them to. They will also advise you about any benefits to which you may be entitled. Many people are hesitant about applying for benefits, particularly if they have never applied for them before. However, it is important to take advantage of them if you are eligible because they may enable you to achieve better outcomes as you get older.

For example Attendance Allowance does not depend on your income or saving, and can be extremely useful to you and your carers.